Lots-A-Tots from Hooters feature a generous serving of crispy, golden-brown tater tots seasoned to perfection, piled high and served piping hot, offering a satisfying combination of crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy potato interior.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry baskets
- Tongs
- Sheet pan (for draining)
- Paper towels (for draining)
- Mixing bowl (for seasoning)
- Serving platter or basket
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) frozen tater tots
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Frozen tater tots should be evenly coated with vegetable oil and a carefully measured blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to achieve the signature Lots-A-Tots seasoning. Using a deep fryer and fry baskets ensures the tots come out crispy and golden-brown, while draining them on paper towels prevents excess oil, maintaining the perfect texture. It's important to season the tots immediately after frying while they are still hot to allow the spices to adhere properly. You can use a mixing bowl to toss the tots thoroughly with the seasoning for consistent flavor. This method replicates the iconic Lots-A-Tots from Hooters copycat menu, delivering that familiar crunchy exterior and fluffy potato interior you love.
Instructions
- Preheat the deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place frozen tater tots in a mixing bowl and toss with vegetable oil until evenly coated.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the bowl.
- Toss tater tots until evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Place seasoned tater tots in fry baskets, in batches if necessary.
- Lower baskets into the deep fryer and fry tater tots for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove tater tots from fryer using tongs and place them on a sheet pan lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Transfer tater tots to a serving platter or basket.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Substitution
The Lots-A-Tots from Hooters copycat menu calls for deep frying to achieve the signature crispy texture, but you can opt for oven baking or air frying if a healthier or less oily alternative is preferred. When seasoning, ensure you mix the spices thoroughly in a mixing bowl before tossing your tater tots for even flavor distribution. Use tongs to carefully transfer the hot tots onto a sheet pan lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness. If you don't have garlic or onion powder, consider substituting with freshly minced garlic or finely chopped onions, though adjust quantities to avoid overpowering the dish. Your choice of seasoning can be adjusted to suit your heat tolerance, especially when managing the cayenne pepper quantity.
Tips
Ensure your deep fryer is fully preheated to 375degF (190degC) before frying to achieve the perfect crispy texture. Avoid overcrowding the fry baskets; fry your tater tots in batches for even cooking and to maintain their crunchiness. Use paper towels on a sheet pan to drain excess oil promptly, preventing sogginess and keeping your Lots-A-Tots crisp. Your attention to seasoning balance directly impacts the final flavor, so toss the tater tots thoroughly for an even coating.
Nutritions
Lots-A-Tots from Hooters provide a carbohydrate-rich snack primarily sourced from the potatoes in tater tots. The seasoning blend including garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper adds flavor with minimal calories but contributes small amounts of antioxidants and vitamins. The deep-frying process significantly increases the fat content due to oil absorption, impacting the overall calorie count. Your intake should be mindful of portion size to balance enjoyment with nutritional needs, especially regarding fats and sodium from seasoning.
Storage
Store leftover Lots-A-Tots in an airtight container to maintain their crispness and prevent moisture buildup. For best taste and texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 400degF (200degC) for 10-15 minutes rather than using a microwave. Your tater tots will regain their golden-brown crunch while staying soft inside.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, chili powder, or rosemary to customize the flavor of your tater tots. Try baking instead of deep frying by spreading the seasoned tots on a sheet pan and cooking at 425degF (220degC) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. For added texture, toss the tots with grated Parmesan cheese right after frying while they are still hot. Incorporating finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives as a garnish can enhance both flavor and visual appeal.
Allergies
Lots-A-Tots from Hooters contain common allergens such as vegetable oil, which may sometimes be derived from soy or corn, potentially triggering reactions in sensitive individuals. The seasoning blend includes garlic and onion powders, which can cause intolerance or allergic reactions in some people. If you have specific food allergies, carefully check all ingredients or consult with the restaurant before enjoying your meal.
Why this recipe?
Lots-A-Tots from Hooters combines crispy golden tater tots topped with savory cheese, bacon bits, green onions, and a drizzle of creamy sauce, creating a rich flavor explosion that excites your taste buds. The menu item balances texture and taste perfectly, making it a crowd favorite for snacking or casual meals. Attempting a copycat version lets you customize ingredients to your preference, achieving fresh, flavorful results at a fraction of the restaurant price. Your homemade Lots-A-Tots can replicate the indulgent experience while offering more control over quality and portion size.